The CPI(M) leadership is facing scrutiny after serious allegations by Vinodini Kodiyeri, wife of former party state secretary Kodiyeri Balakrishnan, claiming neglect by senior leaders following his death. In an interview, Vinodini stated that the family had not been inquired about for four years since Kodiyeri’s passing in October 2022 after battling cancer. She expressed disappointment over the alleged disregard of Kodiyeri’s final wish to return to Thiruvananthapuram for a farewell among party cadres.
Vinodini highlighted that the funeral procession to the state capital and public homage at the AKG Centre, which would have seen a large turnout of party workers and supporters, were reportedly avoided by certain sections of the leadership. She emphasized the family’s lingering pain over the denial of a proper farewell for Kodiyeri, who dedicated decades to building the party organization. Vinodini’s comments are seen as indirect criticism of CPI(M) state secretary M.V. Govindan and the senior party leadership.
Alleging that a senior Politburo member in Kerala did not respond to her calls despite multiple attempts, Vinodini questioned the lack of contact from Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and other senior leaders post-Kodiyeri’s demise. She clarified that her criticism did not concern her son’s political return but rather the perceived lack of appreciation for a leader committed to the Communist cause. The family, she stressed, sought no favors but was disappointed by the conduct of senior party figures.
The allegations have sparked internal discussions within the CPI(M), particularly among those expecting support for Kodiyeri’s family during challenging times. These revelations are poised to fuel debates within the party, raising concerns about the treatment of the family of one of its influential leaders.
